Complete all necessary undergraduate preparation. While all clinical psychology graduate programs require applicants to have a bachelor's degree, a psychology major is typically not required. However, all programs expect students to have a high grade point average. Successful applicants generally have a cumulative undergraduate GPA of at least 3.5.
Take the GRE General and Subject Tests. The GRE General Test has three sections -- verbal reasoning, math and analytical writing. The GRE Subject Test focuses exclusively on the field of psychology. The 205 multiple choice questions cover areas such as learning, psychiatric disorders, the history of psychology and research methods. While virtually all programs require the General Test, not all colleges require the Subject Test.
Complete the application paperwork. In almost all cases, this will involve an essay on why you are applying to the program. One of the most important things to remember when writing a personal statement for a clinical psychology program is that you will likely be working closely with at least one specific faculty member on her research. For this reason, the personal statement should address why your research interests match up with that of the faculty and what you can contribute to their research team.
Submit letters of recommendation. All programs will require reference letters -- typically three -- from people who can speak to the applicant's readiness for graduate school. These letters are most commonly written by former professors, but recommendations can also come from people such as advisers or employers.
Submit official transcripts and test scores. Results from either of the GRE exams can be sent directly to the schools of the test taker's choice. Students also need to submit official transcripts from all colleges and universities they have previously attended.
Visit the campus for an interview. Many programs hold interview days on which they invite their leading candidates to tour the campus and meet with current students and faculty. Students who are attending an interview day should come prepared not only to answer questions, but to ask plenty of questions of their own. Students should also remember to dress neatly, speak clearly and treat everyone they encounter on campus with politeness and respect.